HC quashes clearance to Athirappally hydel project

Kochi, Mar 23 (UNI) The Kerala High Court today quashed environmental clearance given by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests for the Athirappally hydro-electric project.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice V K Bali and Justice S Siri Jagan said the State Electricity Board applied for environmental clearance after publishing an environment impact assessment report and giving an opportunity to public to be heard in the matter.

In the PIL by Nature Lovers Movement and others, it was contended that the environment clearance issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests did not take into account vital aspects. It was submitted that along the 80 km stretch of Chalakudy river, eight dams including two hydro-electric projects existed and water had been overexploited.

The Court said it did not examine whether the project would have an adverse impact on environment. Finding procedural infirmity in complying with mandatory formalities, the Court set aside environmental clearance.

UNI XR PMM VD BD1915